Candied orange slices are a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus sweetness to any occasion. This simple yet elegant recipe transforms fresh oranges into chewy, flavorful snacks perfect for garnishing desserts or enjoying on their own. With just a few ingredients, you can create these vibrant slices that not only look beautiful but also pack a punch of flavor. Ideal for holiday gifts, party platters, or as an addition to your breakfast spread, candied orange slices are versatile and easy to make. zesty lemon jam recipe In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. lemon blueberry dessert Whether you’re an experienced cook or trying your hand at candied fruits for the first time, you’ll find this method straightforward and rewarding. So grab your oranges and get ready to indulge in this sweet citrus treat that will impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Candied Orange Slices
- Healthier Sweet Snack: These candied orange slices provide a satisfying sweetness without the guilt of traditional candies, making them a great alternative for healthier snacking.
- Beautiful Presentation: The bright color and glossy finish of these slices make them visually stunning, elevating any dessert or cheese platter.
- Perfect for Gifting: Packaged beautifully, these candied orange slices make thoughtful gifts during the holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients for Candied Orange Slices
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Oranges: Choose ripe oranges with no blemishes; navel oranges work wonderfully due to their sweetness.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is typically used in this recipe to create a syrupy glaze that adheres perfectly to the orange slices.
- Water: This is essential for dissolving the sugar and creating the syrup needed for candying the oranges.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Candied Orange Slices
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Oranges
Begin by thoroughly washing your oranges under running water. Slice them into thin rounds, about a quarter-inch thick, making sure to remove any seeds.
Step 2: Create the Sugar Syrup
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine equal parts water and sugar (typically one cup each). Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved.
Step 3: Candy the Orange Slices
Gently place the sliced oranges into the sugar syrup. Allow them to simmer on low heat for approximately 45 minutes, turning occasionally until they become translucent.
Step 4: Dry the Slices
Once candied, use a slotted spoon to remove the orange slices from the syrup and place them on a wire rack lined with parchment paper. Let them dry for about one hour.
Step 5: Coat with Sugar (Optional)
For an extra touch of sweetness and texture, roll each slice in granulated sugar while still slightly sticky from drying.
Step 6: Store Properly
Once completely cool and dry, store your candied orange slices in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy within two weeks for optimal freshness.
Transfer to plates and serve as a delightful garnish or sweet snack!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Slice Thickness: Aim for uniform thickness in your orange slices to ensure even cooking and candying throughout.
- Cooling Time: Allow enough cooling time after candying so that they set properly before storing or serving.
- Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding spices such as cinnamon or cloves to your sugar syrup for unique flavor profiles.
How to Serve Candied Orange Slices
This Candied Orange Slices is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare Candied Orange Slices in advance. Simply follow the recipe, then allow them to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to one week. For more inspiration, check out this preserved lemons recipe recipe.
- Storing: To keep your leftovers fresh, place them in an airtight container. They will last for about a week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag, where they can remain good for up to three months.
- Reheating: To maintain their texture, reheat Candied Orange Slices gently. Place them in a saucepan over low heat for about five minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid high heat as it may alter their consistency.
Suggestions for Candied Orange Slices:
Use Fresh, High-Quality Oranges
Choosing the right oranges is crucial for making delicious candied orange slices. Opt for fresh, firm oranges that have a vibrant color and a fragrant aroma. Avoid any that are soft or have blemishes. The quality of the fruit directly affects the final product; using high-quality oranges will result in better flavor and texture. Additionally, organic oranges can be a great choice since they often lack harmful pesticides. Remember to wash the oranges thoroughly before slicing to remove any wax or residue.
Don’t Skip the Soaking Process
Soaking your orange slices is an essential step in the candied orange slice process. This technique helps to reduce bitterness from the pith and enhances the overall sweetness of the slices. Aim to soak your orange slices in water for several hours, ideally overnight. This method allows the slices to absorb moisture and prepares them for candying. Skipping this step may lead to overly bitter slices that do not have the desired taste and texture you want.
Control the Cooking Temperature
Maintaining an appropriate cooking temperature is critical when making candied orange slices. Too high a temperature can cause the sugar to caramelize too quickly, resulting in burnt slices. Ideally, cook your orange slices at a low simmer, allowing them to gradually absorb the sugar syrup without burning. Keep an eye on them throughout the process to ensure even cooking and prevent overcooking. Patience is key here; allowing them to cook slowly will yield perfectly tender and sweet candied slices.
Store Properly
Proper storage of your candied orange slices is vital for maintaining their freshness and flavor over time. Once cooled completely, place them in an airtight container to prevent moisture from getting inside. Consider layering parchment paper between each layer of slices to avoid sticking together. Store them in a cool, dark place or refrigerate them if you live in a warm climate. Proper storage ensures that your candied orange slices remain delicious for weeks or even months.
FAQs:
How long do candied orange slices last?
Candied orange slices can last quite a while when stored properly. If kept in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, they can last up to three months. If you choose to refrigerate them, they may stay fresh for up to six months or even longer. However, it’s essential to check for any signs of spoilage such as mold or off smells before using them after prolonged storage.
Can I use other citrus fruits for candying?
Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on candied orange slices, many other citrus fruits work well for candying too. Lemons, limes, and grapefruits can also produce delightful results. Each fruit brings its unique flavor profile; for instance, lemon slices tend to be more tart than oranges while grapefruit offers a slightly bitter note. key lime cookies recipe lemon lavender shortbread cookies Experimenting with different citrus varieties allows you to create diverse flavors that suit your palate.
Are candied orange slices healthy?
Candied orange slices do offer some health benefits due to their vitamin C content; however, they are primarily considered a treat because of their high sugar content from the candying process. Moderation is key if you’re watching your sugar intake or overall dietary health. They can be a delightful addition to desserts or enjoyed on their own but should not replace whole fruits in your diet.
How can I use candied orange slices?
Candied orange slices are versatile and can enhance many dishes! Use them as a garnish on cakes or pastries for added flavor and visual appeal. They also make excellent additions to cheese boards or charcuterie platters alongside nuts and dried fruits. For those who enjoy cocktails, consider incorporating them into drinks as a unique garnish that adds both sweetness and flair. For more inspiration, check out this strawberry crunch poke cake recipe.
Conclusion for Candied Orange Slices:
In summary, making perfect candied orange slices requires careful attention at each stage of preparation—from selecting fresh oranges and soaking them appropriately to controlling cooking temperatures and ensuring proper storage methods. By following these suggestions closely, you will achieve deliciously sweet and perfectly textured treats that elevate various dishes or stand alone as delightful snacks. Don’t forget about experimenting with different citrus varieties for exciting new flavors! Enjoy your culinary adventure with these delectable candied creations!
Candied Orange Slices
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Candied orange slices are a sweet and chewy delight that transform ordinary oranges into a vibrant treat. Perfect for garnishing desserts, adding to cheese platters, or simply enjoying as a snack, these homemade slices are both visually stunning and delicious. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress friends and family with this elegant citrus creation.
Ingredients
- 2 large fresh oranges
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Wash the oranges thoroughly and slice them into thin rounds (about ¼ inch thick), removing any seeds.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the orange slices to the syrup and simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, turning occasionally, until they become translucent.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the candied slices to a wire rack lined with parchment paper to cool for about one hour.
- (Optional) Roll each slice in granulated sugar while still slightly sticky for added sweetness.
- Once cooled completely, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Candying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (20g)
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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